Frequently Asked Questions
Why are we doing these renovations now?
Both the Early Education Center (EEC) and the stadium are in critical need of renovation and can no longer be deferred. The athletic field and track have deteriorated to the point that they can no longer host CYO meets or competitions. The EEC has experienced significant mechanical and plumbing failures, rendering the third floor unusable due to lack of heating and cooling.
The safety and navigation challenges of the 74-year-old EEC building—with its complex layout of levels and wings—are a growing concern for children, staff, parents, and grandparents. In addition, the playground areas have significantly declined and require updates to ensure accessibility and safety, These renovations will also provide an elevator for the EEC/gym building and a maintenance shed, both of which have been needs for a long time.
The original plan in the Feasibility Study was to renovate the existing three-story EEC building. Why was that plan changed?
The initial Feasibility Study proposed renovating the existing three-story EEC building. However, after receiving feedback from many parishioners, we reconsidered building an entirely new facility. Unfortunately, the cost of a new build exceeded what we believed our parish could reasonably support.
Additional cost-benefit analyses, including research into modern early childhood education spaces, led us to our current plan: a blend of renovating key areas of the existing EEC and constructing new classrooms, offices, and a playground. This hybrid approach balances practicality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness.
Is St. Joseph Parish covering the entire cost of these renovations?
No. We anticipate that parishioner support—through donations and pledges—will fund approximately 60% of the total cost. Our parish reserves would fund 10%, and we hope to attract support for the remaining 30% from sources outside our parish – including foundations, regional philanthropists, alumni and corporations. This approach not only helps reduce the financial burden on our parishioners but also recognizes that the EEC and Athletic Facility serve the broader community.
What will the EEC's capacity be? Will it include infant and toddler care?
Yes. Once renovated, the EEC will serve up to 172 children, ranging from infants and toddlers through Pre-K. Providing care for infants and toddlers has always been a core goal of our campaign, and is a distinctive feature of St. Joseph’s programming.
Unlike most Catholic early education centers, which typically only serve preschool and Pre-K, our EEC will offer a full continuum of early childhood care—setting a high standard and serving as a model for the Archdiocese.
Will the EEC students be displaced during the construction process?
Construction may require temporary relocation of some infant and toddler classrooms for a short period. However, the older children in the EEC will be able to remain in their classrooms during the renovation process.
Will the EEC renovation include any new programs, spaces or curricula for young children?
Yes. The children in the EEC preschool and pre-K programs already have high rates of kindergarten readiness because of fundamental skill-building in reading readiness, counting and number recognition, and fine and gross motor skills development. Social and emotional activities (taking turns, sharing, following directions and managing emotions) are woven into indoor and outdoor activities.
The renovation will introduce several new, purpose-built spaces, including:
- A sensory room for children with sensory processing needs
- A mother’s nursing room, providing a welcoming space for nursing mothers
- A new courtyard and improved use of the auxiliary (carpeted gym), benefitting all grade levels
We’re also excited to expand our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program—an impactful, Montessori-based faith formation program for ages 3–8. The program will now operate in a dedicated space called the atrium, fostering deeper spiritual development for young children.
Who will use the new Athletic Facility?
While designed primarily for youth sports, the new Athletic Facility will serve a wide range of users. These include:
- CYO leagues from Johnson and Wyandotte Counties and the Parochial League of KCMO
- Special Olympics Kansas, hosting multiple sports such as soccer, flag football, bocce, and cornhole
- Catholic Challenge Sports, a regional young adult league
- St. Joseph School and EEC for regular programming
- Parish ministries and families for School of Religion, parish events, and more
This facility will be a vibrant hub for our entire community, far beyond just our parish.
How will the regional CYO support the campaign to renovate the stadium?
The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) of the Archdiocese is a committed partner of St. Joseph for this renovation project. Their support not only validates our vision but also plays a critical role in securing external funding and reducing the financial responsibility on St. Joseph parishioners.
How will the EEC and Athletic Facility be financially sustainable?
Both the EEC and Athletic Facility will be designed with long-term financial sustainability in mind. Key revenue-generating components include:
- Increased EEC enrollment, thanks to expanded capacity
- Facility sponsorships and rentals of the Athletic Facility, particularly from youth leagues and community organizations
- Positive operating cash flow, enabling competitive teacher compensation and offsetting inflation
The revitalized stadium—now a multi-purpose Athletic Facility—will be a revenue-positive asset for the parish. At the same time, the expanded EEC will help grow enrollment at St. Joseph Elementary School, further strengthening our parish and school community.
What are the plans for the existing EEC building (former high school building)?
Limited improvements will be made to the existing EEC building, primarily with the renovation of two restrooms on the main floor, near the gym. These renovated, ADA-compliant restrooms will serve both the gym and the stadium visitors, providing improved access for parish families and campus visitors attending events here. Additional classroom areas on the main floor can be converted to become team meeting rooms for youth football/basketball/volleyball teams needing to meet before and after games. The rest of this building will not be renovated at this time, but could be considered for office, storage or meeting use in the future.
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